Image via Shutterstock – Copyright: Helga Esteb
Jennifer Hudson (pictured), LeAnn Rimes and Olivia Newton-John are among the stars lined up to perform on Carnival Cruise Lines’ ships this year.
The cruise line has just revealed details of its new Carnival Live Concert Series at an event in New York’s Cutting Room, with a live performance from Grammy award winner Jennifer Hudson.
A total of 15 chart-topping acts, including Foreigner, Jewel, Kansas and REO Speedwagon, will entertain guests on 49 concert dates while the ships are docked at selected ports of call.
Hudson said: “Performing live is one of my favourite things. I’m excited to be part of this unique concert series that will allow me to interact with my fans in such an intimate and memorable setting.”
The 49 concerts will take place on board eight Carnival Cruise Lines ships that call in the following ports: Cozumel, Mexico; Nassau, the Bahamas; and Catalina Island, California. Artists will join the ship while in port, perform in the main show lounge that evening, and disembark following their show.
Tickets cost $20-40 each and a limited number of VIP tickets are available for each show for $100-$150 each. The VIP experience includes an artist meet and greet, photo opportunity, seating in the first three rows and a commemorative concert pass.
Mark Tamis, senior vice president of guest operations, said: “Our guests will enjoy an exclusive performance with one of their favourite artists for an extraordinary value.
“This is also a great tool for our travel agent partners, providing an additional feature at a great value that can be promoted when selling Carnival Cruise Lines.”
The line is also enhancing its in-house bands. The bands will feature both male and female lead singers, a more choreographed, themed and diverse set list, and increased interaction with guests.
Nine Carnival ships already feature the new bands, with more to be added across the fleet this year.